What is the primary difference between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant according to the discussed doctrine?

The primary difference between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, as discussed in the context of doctrine, is indeed rooted in their application under various dispensations. The Old Covenant, often associated with the Law given to Israel, was intended for a specific historical and cultural context, focusing on the nation of Israel and its regulations for worship and relationship with God. Conversely, the New Covenant, instituted through the work of Jesus Christ, extends beyond Israel to encompass all believers, allowing for a more universal and transformative relationship with God through faith rather than adherence to the law.

This understanding highlights how covenants are not just agreements but are also reflective of God's unfolding plan of redemption, with different covenants being applicable to different periods in history. This perspective sees the New Covenant as fulfilling and surpassing the Old Covenant's limitations and points toward a new way of living in relationship with God based on grace and faith rather than law.

The other choices, such as the purposes in salvation, the timing of their establishment, or the involvement of different deities, do not accurately capture the essence of the contrast that is emphasized in the doctrine being discussed. They either conflate roles that are distinct or misinterpret the fundamental understanding of the nature of God within a progressive revelation context.